Experts around the world have declared that we’ll have to learn to live with the coronavirus for a long time. Does that mean we’ll never travel again? Hell no, we will. We’ll just have to rethink our ways of travelling.
Currently, one of the most popular trends emerging right now in the United States and other parts of the world is camping. More specifically, a camping road trip. Think about it! A camping road trip not only lets you travel and hit the road after a long long time but also provides you with a way to isolate yourself and helps you release the stress of having to stay cooped up at home for days. Thus making for a perfect post-lockdown travel option!
Also read: 4 Reasons Why Camping Is The Best Way To Travel Post Lockdown
And thankfully, Dubai has a host of camping sites, that lets you picth a perfect tent. Although, this might not be the perfect weather to go camping, it is a good way to travel without fearing the pandemic. That said, camping on the desert is impossible in this weather. Here are four other camping sites in Dubai you must go if you want more than just the golden sands.
1. Al Qudra Lake
If you are looking for the best of both worlds- land and water, Al Qudra Lake is where you must head! A short drive from the Mall Of Emirates takes you to this popular camping site.
What sets this aside from other sites is the little oasis, which is home to flamingos and swans. Pitch a tent here and if you are lucky, you might even spot camels in the morning.
2. Hatta
Situated in the outskirts of Dubai, Hatta is one camping site which has a lot to offer. In fact, you don’t even have to carry your tents along. The camping site has stay options, which will double up as a perfect staycation too. Surrounded by mountains, dam and a lake, Hatta provides scope for adventure sports and activities. The lake serves as a perfect site for kayaking and paddle boarding while the mountains excite those who love biking and hiking.
Where: Hajar mountains
3 Banan Beach
Located along the Jebel Ali shoreline, is a beach with bright colored wooden tents and chalets. The Banan beach is best for all those who love camping under the company of sun, sand and water. The tents are nothing less than a luxury room in a hotel, so you don’t have to lug along sleeping bags or mattresses. As for the activities, you can barbecue on the beach, engage in over 12 different water sports, or simply play a game of beach volley ball. You can also go shopping in the mini market onsite or head to the Jebel Ali Shooting Club if that’s your thing. You can stay overnight, with sleeping tents for two costing from AED350 a night. The chalets start from AED 1,000 for a night.
Where: Jebel Ail
4. Jebel Jais
Fancy camping on a mountain top? Jebel Jais will let you fulfill that wish! Pack your tents and spend the night under a moon-lit sky. In the morning, wake up to a spectacular sunrise and gear up for a day filled with adventurous activities. In case you didn’t know, Jebel Jais is home to the longest zipline. If that’s not your thing, go skating on their brand new ice rink or chill with a warm cup of coffee at their viewing deck. The view is truly breathtaking!
Where: Jebel Jais mountain, Ras Al Khaimah
Precautions To Take While Camping
That said, since we’re still unsure about everything, it is important to travel responsibly and take responsibility of our actions.
1. While stopping at a rest stop or convenience store for supplies or a restroom break, you will have to be super careful. So first, avoid making too many stops during your adventure. Always keep a hand sanitizer with you. Limit physical contact with others and keep your hands to yourself. Also, don’t forget to wipe your steering wheel and door handles each time you touch them after a pit stop.
2. Many campgrounds are making additional efforts to keep restrooms clean and disinfected but don’t assume that these steps will guarantee safety from the virus. Hence, at the campsite, if you’re using public bathrooms, or any public equipment, ensure that you’re taking all the safety precautions needed.
3. Respect the campsites and the surrounding. Since you’re probably sharing room with wildlife or locals in isolated places where health facilities are inadequate, make sure you’re taking all the required precautions. Also, do not litter.
4. Pack all the necessary food and gear in bulk, along your big bag of sanitizers, wipes, disposable gloves, and your masks as a precaution for yourself and others!
5. Take accountability and be responsible for anything that could happen while you’re on your adventure! And viola, you’re all set to have the best camping experience of your life!